Gillo Dorfles

Gillo Dorfles 2013

Gillo Dorfles (12 April 1910 – 2 March 2018) was an Italian art critic, painter, and philosopher. He was a prominent figure in the field of aesthetics and made significant contributions to the understanding of contemporary art and culture.

Early Life and Education

Gillo Dorfles was born in Trieste, Italy. He studied medicine at the University of Milan, where he graduated in 1934. Despite his medical background, Dorfles developed a keen interest in art and aesthetics, which led him to pursue a career in these fields.

Career

Dorfles began his career as a painter and was associated with the Movimento Arte Concreta (MAC), an Italian art movement that emphasized abstract art. He was also a prolific writer and art critic, contributing to various art journals and publications.

Contributions to Aesthetics

Dorfles is best known for his work in aesthetics, where he explored the relationship between art and society. He authored several influential books, including Il divenire delle arti (1959) and Le oscillazioni del gusto (1970). His writings often focused on the evolution of artistic taste and the impact of modernity on art.

Teaching and Influence

Dorfles held teaching positions at several universities, including the University of Trieste and the University of Milan. He influenced a generation of students and scholars with his interdisciplinary approach, combining insights from philosophy, art history, and cultural studies.

Personal Life

Dorfles lived a long and productive life, remaining active in the art world well into his later years. He passed away in Milan at the age of 107.

Legacy

Gillo Dorfles left an indelible mark on the field of aesthetics and contemporary art criticism. His work continues to be studied and appreciated for its depth and insight into the complexities of modern art and culture.

Related Pages

• Aesthetics
• Movimento Arte Concreta
• University of Milan
• University of Trieste
• Art criticism